Man City simply must sign a defender in January – and here’s why

The full-backs play an important role in Pep’s side

Full backs are vital to how Pep sets his team up. In a revolutionary tactic not seen before in English football the Spaniard encourages his full-backs to tuck-in when his team are in possession, effectively becoming central midfield players.

This tactic allows the actual central midfielders to occupy other positions further forward and either find space or draw defenders towards them, which in turn creates space elsewhere for others.

Guardiola will need a clever all round footballer to play in this role effectively, one who can defend well, but can also pick a pass. It’ll be hard to find but it is the next step for this City team, as they look to grab their first ever European Trophy this term.